What are the parks like if you arrive before opening?

[Minky]

we usually wander in whenever we are ready, by 11 or 12, but I was hoping to get us there in the morning this trip before the parks open, so we would have more time to enjoy the resort later in the day.....are there mobs of people there in the morning or not so bad? any and all info and input is greatly appreciated!

 

[fanningIII]

We arrived early to MK, it was wonderful to see Mickey come in on the train to the station and do a little number. I had never seen this before and it was worth it.

 

[MidgeD79]

Park openings vary but usually you can get in up to the rope 15-30 minutes early. It is the best time to go. There is usually a pre-opening show and other than the madhouse of the first 500 feet, things even out pretty good. It is the best time to go.

 

[peter11435]

Even on a Saturday in the summer if I hit MK at opening I can hit Pirates, Mansion, Splash, Thunder, and Peter Pan all before 10.

 

[Leota]

When it's a busy time, we always hit the Parks for opening if we want to get anything done without waiting. We can usually hit all the Big Attractions in the first 2 hours, meanwhile gathering Fast Passes for later to do things a second time. We then hit smaller attractions & use Fast Passes before taking a break for the afternoon. We nap in the afternoon so we can get up early the next day.

 

[nemomama]

We usually arrive at the parks an hour before opening. I like getting there then, the parks are reasonably quiet, you get a great parking space if you drive and get right to the front of the line to get in. Plus the welcome show is nice.

 

[disneyaggie]

I agree! I got to the parks before opening in November of last year and loved the opening ceremonies.

While I was at the MK, I rode Buzz Lightyear, Tomorrowland Indy Speedway, Winnie the Pooh, and saw Mickey's Philharmagic all within the first hour! Whoohoo!

I followed the Unofficial Guide's suggestions and found the suggestions to be more than helpful.